Easter plans at the Great Central Railway (GCR) have left Ruffle the Rail Dog wagging his tail in anticipation.

The GCR has just announced its plans for the Easter weekend and families – along with their four-legged friends – have a special invitation to attend the five-day event.

Ruffle, an Airedale terrier who loves railways, will be taking over the trains on Wednesday 27 and Thursday 28 March, as well as on Tuesday 2, Wednesday 3 and Thursday 4 April.

Steam trains will be running on the railway and there will be an interactive story-telling performance as well as a treasure hunt and trail with a distinctly doggy theme.

Ruffle is the main character in a series of books written by Leicestershire author Rachel Greaves.

The canine hero experiences a range of steam train-based adventures and is always on the lookout to help his GCR friends.

Your chance to meet Ruffle

Visitors will be able to meet the dog himself at Ruffle’s Den at the Marquee at Quorn and Woodhouse station.

He will be present at various times during the Easter holidays and details are shown on the website – https://www.gcrailway.co.uk/whatson2024/.

Any visiting children will receive a free activity pack containing puzzles, a competition and Ruffle’s Trail to complete while they are taking a trip on a steam train.

What’s more, all under-13s can travel for just £1, provided they bring along an accompanying adult.

The ever popular ‘Kids Go for as Quid’ runs over throughout the Easter holidays.

But Ruffle has also been doing his bit for his pup pals and has made sure that ‘Pups Don’t Pay’ is running once again.

Well-behaved, accompanied dogs may travel free over the holidays and will be able to enjoy a tasty treat on their journey, but they must stay on their leads while on the railway.

Dogs have always been welcome at the GCR, meaning that the railway is recognised as one of Leicestershire’s top dog-friendly visitor attractions.

Afternoon teas and fine dining packages will also be available over the school Easter holidays.

For those looking for something extra-special, there’s also the chance to drive a steam train. Details are available on the GCR website.

Richard Bruce, Head of Stations and Events at the Great Central Railway, said: “We’re really excited to welcome Ruffle the Rail Dog and author, Rachel Greaves, to the Great Central Railway and to share Ruffle’s amazing adventures. Our Ruffle the Rail Dog Easter Extravaganza is set to be a great day out for all the family and with our Kids Go for a Quid deal, it adds up to a great, affordable staycation solution for the Easter holiday.”